Masculinity | Jotup

Illmatic at 30: how Nas invented epistolary rap – and changed the hyper-masculine world of hip hop forever

Retrieved on:

Thursday, April 18, 2024

African Americans, Love, Pulitzer, Noise, Hate Me Now, Trauma, Hope, The Color Purple, Thought, Masculinity, Male, Alice Walker, Creativity, Dear Mama, Literature, Music, Imprisonment, Magic

At the time, these lines were seen as just another gem in a long line of highly sophisticated, literary Nas lyrics.

Key Points:

At the time, these lines were seen as just another gem in a long line of highly sophisticated, literary Nas lyrics.
In many ways a verbal successor to Nas, Lamar controversially won an actual Pulitzer prize for music.
Like Lamar, Nas is as highly esteemed in the street as he is in academic circles.

One Love breaks new ground

The Illmatic track One Love (1994) introduced the “epistolary narrative”, or written letter technique, to the rap genre.
As journalist, educator and author Dax-Devlon Ross explains, One Love contains “a series of prison letters set to song”, which “effectively began the epistolary sub-genre” of rap.
Notable advocates of the technique include one-time rival of Nas, Tupac Shakur, releasing Dear Mama a year after One Love.

Illmatic’s legacy

Released two years after One Love, Xzibit utilised rap’s newly established epistolary sub-genre to pen an emotive open letter to his young son.
The Foundation addresses themes prevalent in the male African American experience, such as lineage, loyalty, masculinity and the paternal bond.

Nas today

In recent years, Nas has reached a purple patch of creativity, and released a flourish of well received albums, including both the King’s Disease (2020) and the Magic series.
When brought into the running of “top five dead or alive” rap debates, Nas is often quick to deflect from comparison, stating that there “ain’t no best”.
As Nas said himself in 2022: “I probably don’t need a therapist because I have music.” It’s hard to think of another rapper of his generation who has opened up so many doors for the artform.

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Paul Stephen Adey does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

Why moving to the right could be wrong for Dutton and the Coalition

Retrieved on:

Wednesday, April 10, 2024

When Peter Dutton took the Coalition reins in 2022 after a humiliating loss of office, his first priority was unity.

Key Points:

When Peter Dutton took the Coalition reins in 2022 after a humiliating loss of office, his first priority was unity.
A punchy and well-schooled parliamentarian, Dutton knew that if ever he was to contest the prime ministership, his primary challenge was to make it to the next election.
The alienation this policy creates among mainstream urban voters could more than offset its popularity in the joint party room (particularly within the anti-renewables Nationals).
They joined Warringah (NSW) on Sydney’s North Shore, lost spectacularly in 2019 to the original “teal”, Zali Steggall.
Read more:
Labor's unexpected Aston win is body blow for Dutton
The bad news has kept on coming.
That needless act, and the brash language justifying it, brought no interjection from Dutton.
It was an example of just the kind of braggadocio that could see even more Liberal women heading for the exits.

Mark Kenny does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

Fintech has a gender problem – here’s why you should care

Retrieved on:

Tuesday, April 9, 2024

Klarna, Woman, Research, Revolut, Female, Entrepreneurship, Human, Masculinity, Glass, Male, Mathematics, Investment, Language, Workplace, Engineering, Toy

Even if you haven’t heard of fintech, you’re probably using it for payments, banking or investments.

Key Points:

Even if you haven’t heard of fintech, you’re probably using it for payments, banking or investments.
Women account for just 4% of CEOs, only 18% of executive committee members, and a mere 7.7% of entrepreneurs within fintech.
Gender inequalities in each of these combine to form what we call a “triple glass ceiling” in the fintech industry.
The longstanding male dominance, continued privileging of masculinity, and rigid gender stereotypes in each of these sectors hinder meaningful progress and change in fintech.

So, where are all the women?

Several interviewees noted that women typically work harder and push more to gain the same result as their male peers.
However, ideas that get dismissed when suggested by a woman commonly gain credence when offered by a man.
Women.

Only 1.5% of chief technology officers or chief information officers are women – a reflection of the technology glass ceiling.
Since people are more likely to relate to and fund entrepreneurs similar to themselves, male-led ventures are more successful.
Successful entrepreneurs have traditionally been male, leading to a male stereotype of entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial success.

What does this mean for you?

If people build and develop products based on their own frustrations and day-to-day living, innovation can only truly be driven by diverse people with different backgrounds and experiences.
If made aware of the gender inequalities in the industry, fintech users can be a voice for change.
Shattering the triple glass ceiling represents an immense challenge, but we cannot be allowed to fail.

Chloe Fox-Robertson receives funding from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). While working on this project Dariusz Wojcik received funding from the European Research Council under the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation program (grant no. 681337). Authors bear all responsibility for the content.

SoNa Chicago Contemporary Art Gallery features new exhibit of works by Paul Gerard Somers in show titled Muscle Memory.

Retrieved on:

Friday, March 22, 2024

Culture, Ball State University, MFA, Muscle Memory, Politics, Ball, Masculinity, University of Chicago, University, Sculpture, Drawing, Multimedia

CHICAGO, March 22, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- SoNa Chicago Contemporary Art opens its new exhibit, Muscle Memory, featuring work by Paul Gerard Somers, on March 29, 2024.

Key Points:

CHICAGO, March 22, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- SoNa Chicago Contemporary Art opens its new exhibit, Muscle Memory, featuring work by Paul Gerard Somers, on March 29, 2024.
I question the boundaries of masculinity within contemporary society and if and when the toys must be put away."
Paul Gerard Somers is an interdisciplinary artist working in fiber, sculpture, painting, drawing, and performance.
SoNa Chicago Contemporary Art is located at 1527 N. Ashland Avenue in the Wicker Park Bucktown neighborhood on Chicago's north side.

Perry Ellis International, Inc., Launches 'Blue Label' by Original Penguin: A Fragrance for Men Inspired by Aquatic Aromas

Retrieved on:

Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Perry Ellis International, PEI, Original Penguin, Masculinity, Glass, Social media, Penguin, Perfume

MIAMI , March 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Perry Ellis International, Inc. (PEI) is pleased to announce the release of Original Penguin Blue Label, a new fragrance for men. This launch catapults the iconic American brand into a new era of fragrance, while remaining true to the brand's ethos of "an Original Good Time."

Key Points:

MIAMI , March 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Perry Ellis International, Inc. (PEI) is pleased to announce the release of Original Penguin Blue Label, a new fragrance for men.
This launch catapults the iconic American brand into a new era of fragrance, while remaining true to the brand's ethos of "an Original Good Time."
Blue Label boasts a vibrant and inviting aura to compliment the accessibility and originality of the brand.
Encapsulating the playful allure of the brand, Blue Label is an aromatic marine-inspired scent that's characterized by freshness, aspiration and dynamism.

Politics with Michelle Grattan: Masculinity expert Michael Flood on boys and men behaving badly

Retrieved on:

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

School, Woman, Violence, Student, Cranbrook School, Father, Culture, Female, Flood, Parent, Masculinity, Queensland University of Technology, Bullying, Justice, Research, University of Queensland, Toy

The scandal has brought back a debate about whether single-sex schools are fit for purpose and the culture they foster.

Key Points:

The scandal has brought back a debate about whether single-sex schools are fit for purpose and the culture they foster.
To discuss this and what leads some men and boys to treat women badly and too often violently, we’re joined by Michael Flood, professor at the School of Justice at Queensland University of Technology.
Flood researches masculinity and gender justice, interpersonal violence and engaging men in violent prevention.
So, for example, the highest rates of sexual violence offending in Australia are among young men 15 to 19.

Absolut Empire's Ball Returns for Season 5 with Nine Houses Competing to Be Canada's Next Drag Empire

Retrieved on:

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Devery, Destiny, Capital Pride, Individual, Ball, POC, Star, Haus, The Great Hall, Sound, House, Masculinity, Creativity, Absolut Vodka, Lighting, Heart, El Mocambo

Founded by Scarlett BoBo, Absolut Empire's Ball celebrates the dazzling artistry and creativity of drag in all its fabulous forms!

Key Points:

Founded by Scarlett BoBo, Absolut Empire's Ball celebrates the dazzling artistry and creativity of drag in all its fabulous forms!
Now in its fifth season, Absolut Empires Ball will have nine lucky houses compete from March through May, judged by some of the best in the business, including Manny Dingo, Lizzie Renaud, Alyssin Chaynes and Mojo Toronto.
This competition offers drag houses the chance of a lifetime to mesmerize large audiences with top-notch, professional productions.
From breathtaking stage setups to stunning lighting and sound, Absolut Empire's Ball creates an unforgettable experience for both performers and spectators.

Addressing anti-Black racism is key to improving well-being of Black Canadians

Retrieved on:

Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Anti-Black racism continues to be a major determinant of poor health and social outcomes for Black Canadians.

Key Points:

Anti-Black racism continues to be a major determinant of poor health and social outcomes for Black Canadians.
Addressing this racism within Canadian institutions — like the health-care system, justice system, the child welfare system and education — has far-reaching implications.
Moreover, in the early days of the pandemic, living in a Black community was strongly correlated with a diagnosis of COVID-19.

Contemporary and historical inequities

Black Canadians’ experiences are rooted in contemporary and historical inequities, including Canada’s history of slavery and racial discrimination.
Policy formulations still shape access to material resources and contribute to structural inequities in Canada, evident in the pervasive low incomes of Black Canadians.
While median annual wages generally increase for the Canadian population, Black men’s wages have remained stagnant.

Black youth mental health

Black youth spoke most about racism in our research on their mental health experiences.
Read more:
Black men's mental health concerns are going unnoticed and unaddressed
Income inequality and insufficient financial resources are complicating factors, impeding many young Black men from getting the counselling they need to improve their mental health.
LGBTQIA+ Black youth may face dire situations, experiencing racism within the LGBTQIA+ community and homophobia within the Black community.

Addressing inequities

Partnering with Black communities is a crucial component in effective efforts to mitigate inequities.
Indeed, it is essential that Black community members participate, to capitalize on their strengths and actively engage in improving their well-being.
Through my personal and professional experiences, I’ve had a unique glimpse into the brilliance and strengths of various Black communities, which are often untapped.
Institutions must do more than just provide education and develop anti-racist policies; they must also ensure accountability in addressing racism.

Looking ahead

However, anti-Black racism has consequences for population outcomes for all Canadians, as we saw during the COVID-19 pandemic.
These moves will improve health and social outcomes for Black Canadians and generate stronger population outcomes in Canada.

Bukola Salami receives funding from Policywise for Children and Families for a project on mental health of Black youth named in this article

Super Bowl: events like this are perfect for brand storytelling – unless companies get their messaging wrong

Retrieved on:

Friday, February 9, 2024

With 115m viewers watching the game last year in the US, 30-second ad spots go for a reported $7m (£5.5m).

Key Points:

With 115m viewers watching the game last year in the US, 30-second ad spots go for a reported $7m (£5.5m).
These days, “Super Bowl ads” are highly anticipated in terms of creative, memorable storytelling that hits home.
Successful ads leverage the massive platform not just to grab eyeballs, but to reinforce brand values through authentic, engaging stories.
Our research showed that employees who believe in the brand will go out of their way to do good.

When brands don’t read the room

Reducing environmental harm and standing up for social issues are two examples of consumer expectations of favoured brands, some of which may be tempted to jump on the bandwagon.
But soon after, Gillette, in its attempt to play the social activist card, launched its “is this the best a man can get?” campaign.
In a dramatic two-minute ad, aspects of toxic masculinity, including bullying, sexism and sexual harassment post-#MeToo were addressed.
The consumer base ends up feeling alienated by the brand’s perceived hypocrisy and inauthenticity.

Evolving narratives

Research shows that storytelling increases reader identification with characters, shifts attitudes and beliefs and creates more lasting memorability than straightforward delivery of information.
Unlike explicit messaging which can feel inauthentic, getting lost in a story can inspire emotions and shape beliefs in a subtle, organic way.

Digital immersive storytelling

We propose using immersive digital storytelling techniques for brands to craft and validate the authenticity of their messaging.
Interactive digital media enables more participatory story experiences between brands and audiences.
Working with a company to showcase their sustainability efforts, we created an immersive storytelling experience using extended reality technology.

The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

Rethinking masculinity: Teaching men how to love and be loved

Retrieved on:

Friday, February 9, 2024

Many masculinity critics speak of the dangers of traditional gender ideologies, rape culture or toxic ways of being male.

Key Points:

Many masculinity critics speak of the dangers of traditional gender ideologies, rape culture or toxic ways of being male.
I live in a world that shows more than enough hatred to Black and Indigenous men.
I want to focus more on how Black and Indigenous men can love and be loved.

Patriarchy, ‘interlocking’ oppressions

Many of the ways of being male that are under scrutiny or that some men are trying to reclaim are connected to patriarchy. The late Black feminist philosopher bell hooks defines patriarchy as:
…"a political-social system that insists that males are inherently dominating, superior to everything and everyone deemed weak, especially females, and endowed with the right to dominate and rule over the weak and to maintain that dominance through various forms of psychological terrorism and violence"
…"a political-social system that insists that males are inherently dominating, superior to everything and everyone deemed weak, especially females, and endowed with the right to dominate and rule over the weak and to maintain that dominance through various forms of psychological terrorism and violence"

As hooks and other Black feminists have also noted, patriarchy, racism, sexism and homophobia can be interlocking systems of domination.
For these reasons, my work on masculinity also comes out of an anti-racist teaching practice.

Lesser-discussed forms of masculinity

As Cherokee scholar Daniel Heath Justice notes in Why Indigenous Literatures Matters, the stories settlers tell about Indigenous communities often amplify toxic stories of lack and deficit.
Too often, such stories presume the perverse success of colonialism.
Carrying the Burden of Peace: Reimagining Indigenous Masculinities Through Story by white settler scholar Sam McKegney explores “Indigenous literary art for understandings of masculinity that exceed the impoverished inheritance of colonialism.” Likewise, Black feminist scholars like hooks have encouraged men to be better and suggested a central task of feminist criticism ought to be articulating less dominating ways for men to preform their masculinity.

Contempt and politics

While I take the point of writers like Pauline Harmange or Blythe Roberson
that misandry (contempt or dislike) can be politically useful, I fear the language of “hating men” is unproductive — even when meant humourously — and can turn men away from the very feminist work that aims to help them become better lovers, fathers, friends and brothers.
Stories we tell about Black and Indigenous men can create fear of them, and this can serve as a justification for racism.

Love and tender feelings

Love can be a tool of anti-racist and decolonial education, but only if we encourage men (and women and non-binary people) to take the risk of expressing tender feelings for others.
In these books, the characters Michael and French are imperfect men who struggle to show tender emotions.
Through trying to process their feelings within found families, these men are healing themselves.

Speaking of these men in terms of the struggle to love is, in itself, an anti-racist practice. Almost all of the young men I work with struggle to express tender emotions, and seeing these characters struggle helps them see Black and Indigenous men as emotional role models.

Encouraging flourishing

Love cannot come from places of domination or abuse, nor can it be maintained through cultures of power and control.
As analytic philosopher Harry Frankfurt argues in The Reasons of Love, love is an orientation to the beloved, whereby I care about doing thinks that encourage their flourishing as human beings.

Taking responsibility for thinking, loving

In poet Adrienne Rich’s essay “Claiming an Education,” she distinguishes between the passive act of receiving an education and the active act of thinking of education as a responsibility to oneself.
This works best, I have found, when it comes from a loving disposition.

Jamie Paris does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.